Finspan, designed by David Gordon and Michael O’Connell and published by Stonemaier Games, invites players into the depths of the ocean as marine researchers.
Over four rounds, players explore three distinct oceanic zones—the Sunlight, Twilight, and Midnight zones—collecting diverse fish species, nurturing eggs into young, and forming schools to build an efficient marine ecosystem. The game emphasizes tableau-building and engine-building mechanics, offering a streamlined experience that retains strategic depth.
Pros:
- Streamlined Gameplay: Finspan simplifies resource management by eliminating food tokens and dice, allowing players to focus on card play and strategic decisions. This design choice enhances accessibility without sacrificing depth.
- Engaging Engine-Building: The game offers satisfying engine-building opportunities, as players strategically place fish cards to maximize benefits during dives. The vertical board layout adds a unique spatial element to the gameplay.
- High-Quality Artwork: The fish cards feature detailed illustrations and informative flavor text, creating an immersive and educational experience. The visual design enhances thematic engagement.
- Improved Solo Mode: The Automa system provides a robust solo experience, offering challenging gameplay that mirrors the multiplayer version.
Cons:
- Component Quality Variance: While the artwork is commendable, some components, such as the egg and young tokens, are considered basic. An optional deluxe upgrade pack is available for those seeking enhanced components.
- Limited Player Interaction: The game primarily focuses on individual player boards, resulting in minimal direct interaction between players. This design may not appeal to those seeking more competitive dynamics.
- Table Space Requirements: The vertical orientation of player boards can occupy significant table space, potentially causing issues in games with higher player counts.
Comparison to Similar Games:
- Wingspan: Finspan offers a more streamlined experience compared to Wingspan, removing certain resource management elements to focus on card play. While both games share engine-building mechanics, Finspan provides a quicker and more accessible gameplay experience.
- Wyrmspan: Wyrmspan introduces additional complexity and thematic elements centered around dragons. In contrast, Finspan maintains a lighter approach, making it more suitable for casual gaming sessions.
Final Thoughts:
Finspan successfully delivers a streamlined and engaging engine-building experience set in an aquatic environment. Its simplified mechanics and educational theme make it an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned gamers seeking a lighter game. While it may not offer significant innovations beyond its predecessors, Finspan stands out for its accessibility, visual appeal, and satisfying gameplay loop.
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